Proverbs 7:4
New International Version
Say to wisdom, “You are my sister,” and to insight, “You are my relative.”

New Living Translation
Love wisdom like a sister; make insight a beloved member of your family.

English Standard Version
Say to wisdom, “You are my sister,” and call insight your intimate friend,

Berean Standard Bible
Say to wisdom, “You are my sister,” and call understanding your kinsman,

King James Bible
Say unto wisdom, Thou art my sister; and call understanding thy kinswoman:

New King James Version
Say to wisdom, “You are my sister,” And call understanding your nearest kin,

New American Standard Bible
Say to wisdom, “You are my sister,” And call understanding your intimate friend,

NASB 1995
Say to wisdom, “You are my sister,” And call understanding your intimate friend;

NASB 1977
Say to wisdom, “You are my sister,” And call understanding your intimate friend;

Legacy Standard Bible
Say to wisdom, “You are my sister,” And call understanding your intimate friend;

Amplified Bible
Say to [skillful and godly] wisdom, “You are my sister,” And regard understanding and intelligent insight as your intimate friends;

Christian Standard Bible
Say to wisdom, “You are my sister,” and call understanding your relative.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
Say to wisdom, “You are my sister,” and call understanding your relative.

American Standard Version
Say unto wisdom, Thou art my sister; And call understanding thy kinswoman:

Contemporary English Version
Let wisdom be your sister and make common sense your closest friend.

English Revised Version
Say unto wisdom, Thou art my sister; and call understanding thy kinswoman:

GOD'S WORD® Translation
Say to wisdom, "You are my sister." Give the name "my relative" to understanding

Good News Translation
Treat wisdom as your sister, and insight as your closest friend.

International Standard Version
Say to wisdom, "You're my sister!" and call understanding your close relative,

NET Bible
Say to wisdom, "You are my sister," and call understanding a close relative,

New Heart English Bible
Tell wisdom, "You are my sister." Call understanding your relative,

Webster's Bible Translation
Say to wisdom, Thou art my sister; and call understanding thy kinswoman:
Majority Text Translations
Majority Standard Bible
Say to wisdom, “You are my sister,” and call understanding your kinsman,

World English Bible
Tell wisdom, “You are my sister.” Call understanding your relative,
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
Say to wisdom, “You [are] my sister.” And cry to understanding, “Relative!”

Young's Literal Translation
Say to wisdom, 'My sister Thou art.' And cry to understanding, 'Kinswoman!'

Smith's Literal Translation
Say to wisdom, Thou my sister; and thou shalt call knowledge to understanding:
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
Say to wisdom: Thou art my sister: and call prudence thy friend,

Catholic Public Domain Version
Say to wisdom, “You are my sister,” and call prudence your friend.

New American Bible
Say to Wisdom, “You are my sister!” Call Understanding, “Friend!”

New Revised Standard Version
Say to wisdom, “You are my sister,” and call insight your intimate friend,
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
Say to wisdom, You are my sister; and to understanding, You are my counselor

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
Say to wisdom, " You are my sister”, and to understanding, "My expounder of knowledge.”
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
Say unto wisdom: 'Thou art my sister', And call understanding thy kinswoman;

Brenton Septuagint Translation
Say that wisdom is thy sister, and gain prudence as an acquaintance for thyself;

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
Warnings about the Adulteress
3Tie them to your fingers; write them on the tablet of your heart. 4Say to wisdom, “You are my sister,” and call understanding your kinsman, 5that they may keep you from the adulteress, from the stranger with seductive words.…

Cross References
Proverbs 4:5-7
Get wisdom, get understanding; do not forget my words or turn from them. / Do not forsake wisdom, and she will preserve you; love her, and she will guard you. / Wisdom is supreme; so acquire wisdom. And whatever you may acquire, gain understanding.

Proverbs 2:1-5
My son, if you accept my words and hide my commandments within you, / if you incline your ear to wisdom and direct your heart to understanding, / if you truly call out to insight and lift your voice to understanding, ...

Proverbs 3:13-18
Blessed is the man who finds wisdom, the man who acquires understanding, / for she is more profitable than silver, and her gain is better than fine gold. / She is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire compares with her. ...

Proverbs 8:1-11
Does not wisdom call out, and understanding raise her voice? / On the heights overlooking the road, at the crossroads she takes her stand. / Beside the gates to the city, at the entrances she cries out: ...

Proverbs 9:10
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.

James 1:5
Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.

Colossians 2:2-3
that they may be encouraged in heart, knit together in love, and filled with the full riches of complete understanding, so that they may know the mystery of God, namely Christ, / in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.

1 Corinthians 1:24
but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.

Job 28:28
And He said to man, ‘Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom, and to turn away from evil is understanding.’”

Psalm 111:10
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow His precepts gain rich understanding. His praise endures forever!

Ecclesiastes 7:12
For wisdom, like money, is a shelter, and the advantage of knowledge is that wisdom preserves the life of its owner.

Matthew 11:19
The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, ‘Look at this glutton and drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’ But wisdom is vindicated by her actions.”

Luke 7:35
But wisdom is vindicated by all her children.”

1 Corinthians 2:6-7
Among the mature, however, we speak a message of wisdom—but not the wisdom of this age or of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing. / No, we speak of the mysterious and hidden wisdom of God, which He destined for our glory before time began.

Ephesians 1:17
that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you a spirit of wisdom and revelation in your knowledge of Him.


Treasury of Scripture

Say to wisdom, You are my sister; and call understanding your kinswoman:

say

Proverbs 2:2-4
So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, and apply thine heart to understanding; …

Proverbs 4:6-8
Forsake her not, and she shall preserve thee: love her, and she shall keep thee…

Proverbs 11:18-20
The wicked worketh a deceitful work: but to him that soweth righteousness shall be a sure reward…

Jump to Previous
Cry Friend Insight Intelligence Intimate Kinsman Kinswoman Relative Sister Special Understanding Wisdom
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Cry Friend Insight Intelligence Intimate Kinsman Kinswoman Relative Sister Special Understanding Wisdom
Proverbs 7
1. Solomon persuades to a sincere and kind familiarity with wisdom
6. In an example of his own experience he shows
10. the cunning of a harlot
22. and the desperate simplicity of a young wanton
24. He detests such wickedness














Say to wisdom, “You are my sister,”
In ancient Hebrew culture, the term "sister" signifies a close, intimate relationship. By referring to wisdom as a sister, the text emphasizes the importance of forming a personal and familial bond with wisdom. This relationship is not merely intellectual but deeply personal and protective. Wisdom, personified as a sister, suggests a constant presence and a source of guidance and support. In biblical context, wisdom is often associated with the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 9:10), indicating that a close relationship with wisdom aligns with a reverent relationship with God. The familial language also echoes the idea of wisdom being a part of one's household, as seen in Proverbs 8:1-3, where wisdom calls out at the city gates, inviting all to embrace her.

and call understanding your kinsman,
The term "kinsman" or "relative" implies a bond of loyalty and responsibility. In the cultural context of the Bible, a kinsman was someone who had a duty to protect and support family members, as seen in the role of the kinsman-redeemer in the Book of Ruth. By calling understanding a kinsman, the text suggests that understanding should be a trusted and integral part of one's life, offering protection and insight. This phrase underscores the necessity of not only acquiring knowledge but also applying it wisely in daily life. Understanding, like a kinsman, is meant to be a reliable companion in navigating life's challenges. This concept is further supported by Proverbs 4:7, which emphasizes the value of acquiring understanding as a principal thing.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Wisdom
In the book of Proverbs, wisdom is often personified as a woman who offers guidance and protection. It represents the divine insight and discernment that comes from God.

2. Understanding
Similar to wisdom, understanding is depicted as a close relative, emphasizing the importance of having a deep comprehension of God's ways and truths.

3. Solomon
Traditionally attributed as the author of Proverbs, Solomon was known for his wisdom, which he received from God. His writings often focus on the pursuit of wisdom and understanding.

4. The Family Metaphor
The use of familial terms like "sister" and "kinsman" suggests a close, intimate relationship with wisdom and understanding, indicating their importance in one's life.

5. The Book of Proverbs
A collection of wise sayings and teachings, primarily focused on imparting moral and practical guidance for living a life that honors God.
Teaching Points
Value of Wisdom and Understanding
Wisdom and understanding should be cherished and valued as close family members. They are essential for navigating life's challenges and making godly decisions.

Pursuit of a Relationship with Wisdom
Just as we cultivate relationships with family, we should actively pursue and nurture our relationship with wisdom and understanding through prayer, study, and application of God's Word.

Wisdom as a Protective Guide
Embracing wisdom and understanding provides protection against the temptations and deceptions of the world, guiding us to live righteously.

Integration into Daily Life
Wisdom and understanding should be integrated into every aspect of our lives, influencing our thoughts, actions, and decisions.

Wisdom as a Divine Gift
Recognize that true wisdom and understanding come from God and should be sought through prayer and a humble heart.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1. What is the meaning of Proverbs 7:4?

2. How can we "say to wisdom, 'You are my sister'" in daily life?

3. What does Proverbs 7:4 teach about valuing wisdom and understanding?

4. How does Proverbs 7:4 connect with James 1:5 on seeking wisdom?

5. In what ways can understanding be a "kinsman" in decision-making?

6. How can Proverbs 7:4 guide us in resisting temptation today?

7. How does Proverbs 7:4 define wisdom and understanding in a believer's life?

8. Why does Proverbs 7:4 personify wisdom and understanding as family members?

9. What historical context influenced the writing of Proverbs 7:4?

10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 7?

11. What does the Bible say about wrathful outbursts?

12. When should you search and when should you give up?

13. Proverbs 26:7: Does the idea of a proverb in a fool's mouth being 'useless' conflict with other Bible passages that suggest all wisdom is beneficial?

14. What does Proverbs 1:7 mean by 'fools despise wisdom'?
What Does Proverbs 7:4 Mean
Say to wisdom, “You are my sister,”

• “Say” implies an intentional, verbal commitment; wisdom is not gained passively but pursued and confessed (Proverbs 2:1-5; James 1:5).

• Calling wisdom “my sister” brings the relationship into the inner circle of family, evoking tenderness, trust, and continual nearness (Job 17:14; Matthew 12:50).

• In the flow of Proverbs 7, this pure, sisterly bond contrasts the seductive outsider in verses 5-23; embracing wisdom guards the heart from immoral entanglements (Proverbs 7:5; Psalm 119:11).

• A sister in the ancient household enjoyed protection and honor; likewise, wisdom shelters and dignifies those who cling to her (Proverbs 4:6; Ecclesiastes 7:12).

• Treating wisdom like family highlights her accessibility—always at home, ready to converse, guide, and keep company throughout daily decisions (Proverbs 8:1-3; Colossians 3:16).


and call understanding your kinsman,

• “Call” stresses conscious recognition; understanding must be named and identified as one’s own (Proverbs 3:5-6).

• A “kinsman” or close relative (Ruth 2:20) carries covenantal loyalty—someone who defends, advises, and advocates. Understanding fulfills that protective role, steering believers from danger (Proverbs 2:11-12).

• The pairing of wisdom and understanding echoes Proverbs 4:7: “Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom. And whatever else you get, get understanding”. Both qualities are inseparable companions in righteous living.

• Relational language underscores that God’s truth is not a distant concept but a personal presence walking with the believer (John 14:26; Psalm 119:104-105).

• As a kinsman redeemer rescued family from debt, understanding rescues the mind from deception and folly (Proverbs 14:8; Ephesians 5:15-17).


summary

Proverbs 7:4 urges believers to adopt wisdom and understanding as their closest family, cultivating an intimate, protective, and loyal relationship with God’s truth. When wisdom becomes a beloved sister and understanding a faithful kinsman, the heart is fortified against temptation, guided toward righteousness, and kept in the safety of God’s design.

Verse 4. - Say unto Wisdom, Thou art my sister. Wisdom is personified, and the connection with her indicated by the relationship which best expresses love, purity, confidence. In the Book of Wisdom 8. she is represented as wife. Christ calls those who do God's will his brother, and sister, and mother (Matthew 12:50). Call Understanding thy kinswoman; moda, "familiar friend." Let prudence and sound sense be as dear to thee as a close friend.

Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
Say
אֱמֹ֣ר (’ĕ·mōr)
Verb - Qal - Imperative - masculine singular
Strong's 559: To utter, say

to wisdom,
לַֽ֭חָכְמָה (la·ḥā·ḵə·māh)
Preposition-l, Article | Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 2451: Wisdom

“You
אָ֑תְּ (’āt)
Pronoun - second person feminine singular
Strong's 859: Thou and thee, ye and you

are my sister,”
אֲחֹ֣תִי (’ă·ḥō·ṯî)
Noun - feminine singular construct | first person common singular
Strong's 269: Sister -- a sister

and call
תִקְרָֽא׃ (ṯiq·rā)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect - second person masculine singular
Strong's 7121: To call, proclaim, read

understanding
לַבִּינָ֥ה (lab·bî·nāh)
Preposition-l, Article | Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 998: An understanding

your kinsman,
וּ֝מֹדָ֗ע (ū·mō·ḏā‘)
Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 4129: An acquaintance


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OT Poetry: Proverbs 7:4 Tell wisdom You are my sister (Prov. Pro Pr)
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